Under the terms of the agreement, scientists from the two companies will exploit Argenta’s expertise in computer-aided drug design, medicinal chemistry, assay development, in vitro screening, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics to accelerate development candidate nomination for one of Zafgen’s innovative therapeutics programs for obesity.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the agreement does provide options to expand the relationship.
Christopher Ashton, CEO of Argenta, said: We are delighted that Zafgen has chosen to collaborate with Argenta on this exciting program. Their decision to work with us is based on our contract research team’s acknowledged expertise, and our ability to offer a fully integrated approach to drug discovery. We look forward to building a successful and long-term partnership with Zafgen.
Argenta has an expertise in delivering rapid hit finding capabilities and has the skills to optimize early-stage compounds, quickly and effectively, into potential drug candidates.
Zafgen is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing novel obesity therapeutics that directly target and shrink fat tissue to help the body regain and sustain a lean, healthy state.